Nested Cannula System for Industrial and Infrastructure Applications
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
A novel adaptation of the nested cannula system for industrial manufacturing, equipment inspection, aircraft engine maintenance, machinery repair, and underwater pipeline inspection, enabling precise and flexible access to complex spaces.
Background and Problem Solved
The original nested cannula system was designed for surgical procedures, but its limitations in accessing complex spaces in industrial and infrastructure settings prompted the development of new applications. This inventive concept addresses the need for precise and flexible access to narrow spaces in various industries, overcoming the constraints of traditional methods.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The nested cannula system is adapted for industrial and infrastructure applications by integrating it with robotic arms, inspection cameras, cleaning systems, repair tools, and underwater exploration equipment. The system's modular design enables the insertion of various tools and sensors through the nested cannula, providing a flexible and precise reach for tasks such as welding, painting, assembly, inspection, maintenance, and repair. The system's interlocking mechanism ensures secure and stable access to complex spaces, while its adaptability to different industries and applications expands its commercial potential.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce a novel application of the nested cannula system, departing from its original surgical context. The inventive step lies in the system's adaptation to industrial and infrastructure settings, where its unique features enable precise and flexible access to complex spaces, overcoming the limitations of traditional methods.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include customized nested cannula systems for specific industries, such as aerospace or automotive, or variations that incorporate advanced materials, sensors, or AI-powered tools to enhance the system's capabilities and versatility.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The nested cannula system for industrial and infrastructure applications has significant commercial potential in various markets, including industrial manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, energy, and infrastructure development. The system's adaptability and versatility make it an attractive solution for companies seeking to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance safety in complex operations.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61B17/3439 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/347 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Medical and industrial robotic access systems, focusing on precision insertion and navigation through constrained spaces, requiring expertise in mechanical engineering, robotics, and system design
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
An engineer with advanced degrees in mechanical or biomedical engineering, experienced in designing modular access systems, familiar with interlocking mechanisms, and capable of adapting surgical technologies to alternative industrial applications
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize the fundamental design principles of the nested cannula system are universally applicable across technical domains, with the core innovation being the interlocking, nested structure that enables precise navigation through constrained spaces. The systematic approach of creating modular, adjustable access systems translates readily between surgical and industrial contexts, representing a predictable engineering adaptation. The technical challenges of accessing complex geometries are fundamentally similar whether in human anatomy or industrial machinery.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,217 |
|---|---|
| Title | Nested cannula system |
| Assignee(s) | Acumed LLC |